1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 (104 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 weights approximately 26 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200. (164 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 200 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 200 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
